U of M Extension announces flood preparation web, phone resources

ST. PAUL, Minn. (4/8/2013) —University of Minnesota Extension announced today its coordinated system of educational resources available for those with flood-related questions, both in preparation for a flood emergency and while recovery efforts are underway.

Portions of the region on both the North Dakota and Minnesota sides of the river are at more than 80 percent risk of major flooding, according to Mark Seeley, University of Minnesota Extension climatologist. Cities at risk include Wahpeton, Fargo, Moorhead, and Oslo and Pembina. Flooding scenarios depend on a host of factors during April, and flooding could begin to take place after April 16.

Citizens can access the most up-to-date information on flood preparation by visiting Extension’s website at www.extension.umn.edu/flood. Information about recovering from floods will be added as it becomes relevant.

Also available are Extension’s toll free phone services, the Flood Information Line (1-800-232-9077) and the AnswerLine (1-800-854-1678). Extension’s Flood Information Line is a resource for questions about water, crops, horticulture and climatology issues. Extension’s AnswerLine provides answers to household and family-oriented questions, such as cleaning, mildew and food safety issues.

Extension’s online resources include information on preparing your family, finances, household and farm for flooding. Both phone services will refer callers to appropriate state and federal agencies if additional information is needed.